“2013 was the year of the Gathering and the challenge was to grow visitor numbers even further.”

Fáilte Ireland CEO, Shaun Quinn, said: “The increase in numbers from the UK is extremely impressive and the performance of our biggest overseas market is exceeding all expectations. All our other key markets are also delivering extra visitors; tourism businesses around the country are upbeat and we seem set for our best tourism season since the downturn began.”

Mr Donohoe is hoping even more people visit next year and is set to release a Tourism Policy Statement later in the year.